January 29, 1785

On January 29, 1785, John Hancock, the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence, resigned as the governor of Massachusetts. The reason given was allegedly due to his failing health. What is strange was that his resignation happened at the same time as Shay’s Rebellion, which was an up-rising of the citizens of Massachusetts due to Hancock’s mismanagement of the state’s economy. What is also strange is that back when Hancock was the president of the Continental Congress in 1777, he also resigned that position due to his ‘failing health’, just as he was accused by Harvard University for the mismanagement of funds from his position as Treasurer. He ended up making a significant repayment to Harvard for the missing funds. It seemed Hancock made a habit of using his fame to put himself in a government position to make himself richer. Sounds like someone contemporary, doesn’t it.

About Joel Byers

Born in North Georgia and educated at some very fine public institutions. Real education started after graduating from college and then getting married and raising two boys. Has the ability to see the funny and absurd in most things and will always remark on it, even if it means getting the stink-eye from his victims.